There is an argument that Facebook should be shut down.

If a firm has become wittingly or unwittingly weaponzied by Russian intelligence, isn’t the responsible thing to do to shut the firm down?

In the case of Facebook, CEO Mark’s Zuckerberg’s first response to accusations his platform had been taken over by Russian intelligence was that the accusation was “crazy”. Later, Facebook admitted that millions had seen Russian fake news. Now, they’re admitting hundreds of millions have seen it. (Although Zuckerberg did not show up to the Sentae hearings on social media – he sent lawyers instead. What kind of message does that send?)

Until recently, Facebook argued that it was “impossible” to regulate the content on its platform. What they meant was “unprofitable.” Has Facebook chosen profits over country, unwittingly committing treason? IF so, Facebook should be shut down.

And if it truly is impossible to regulate, then Facebook should be shut down.

The average age of a Facebook employee is 28. Do employees understand that the role the fourth estate plays in democracy? Do they “get it”? Do they accept any responsibility for the hate messages they routinely publish on their platforms?

As others have pointed out, Facebook are running a swimming pool without lifeguards, taking massive profits despite the huge risks. When democracy drowns, they just shrug.

If Facebook cannot guarantee that a foreign government won’t weaponize their platform at the next election, then Facebook must accept adult supervision  – or be shuttered.

 

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